This article explains what an inguinal hernia is, when surgery is recommended, and how laparoscopic vs open inguinal hernia repair compares in terms of approach, recovery, and suitability.
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Dr. José Lizón is an orthopedic spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive techniques, with a medical degree from the University of Oviedo. Throughout his career, Dr. Lizón has distinguished himself for his expertise in endoscopic spine surgery, playing a key role in advancing this technique in Spain.
Languages spoken: Spanish (native), English (intermediate)
Specialties:
Dr. Gerd Bordon
Dr. Gerd Bordón is an orthopedic spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive techniques. He graduated from the Free University of Berlin and completed his residency at Hospital Universitario La Fe in Valencia, where he later worked as a spine surgeon from 2007 to 2011. He furthered his training in endoscopic and minimally invasive spine surgery in Germany under Dr. D. Rosenthal, and earned his PhD from the University of Giessen in 2007. He has authored key publications on thoracoscopic disc surgery and complex spinal deformity correction. Dr. Bordón currently serves as Head of the Spine and Back Unit at Hospital Ribera IMSKE.
Languages spoken: German (native), Spanish (intermediate), English (intermediate)
Specialties:
Dr. David Fernández Fernández is an orthopedic and trauma surgeon with expertise in the surgical treatment of musculoskeletal conditions and spine surgery. He has extensive experience managing complex trauma, spinal disorders, and advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive procedures.
He obtained his medical degree from the University of Valladolid and completed his specialization in Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology, with dedicated training and clinical experience in cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine surgery. Dr. Fernández is actively involved in continuous medical education and has participated in numerous national and international courses, congresses, and scientific publications.
Languages spoken: Spanish (native), English (intermediate), French (basic)
Specialties:
Dr. Pedro Galindo Fernández
Dr. Pedro Galindo Fernández is a renowned general surgeon specializing in breast surgery and oncological surgery. With extensive experience and advanced training, he is recognized for his expertise in minimally invasive techniques and complex breast pathology procedures.
Dr. Galindo Fernández obtained his medical degree from the University of Murcia, where he also completed his surgical residency. To further specialize, he pursued a Master’s in Mastology and Breast Pathology at the Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo, the only program accredited by the Fundación de Estudios Mastológicos (FEMA) in Spain. His dedication to continuous medical advancements has positioned him as a leader in breast cancer surgery and reconstructive procedures.
Languages spoken: Spanish and English
Specialties:
Hospital Ribera HCMiraflores
Hospital HCMiraflores is a leading healthcare facility known for its advanced medical services and patient-centered care. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a team of highly qualified professionals, the hospital offers a wide range of specialties to meet the diverse healthcare needs of patients.
Location:
Zaragoza
Year opened:
2020
Operating rooms:
8
Employees:
181
External consultations annually:
10,524
Surgeries annually:
194,266
Hospital Ribera Polusa
Hospital Ribera Polusa, located in Lugo, is a trusted private hospital offering high-quality medical care across a wide range of specialties. With advanced technology and a dedicated team of professionals, it provides personalized treatments to ensure the best outcomes.
Location:
Lugo, Galicia, Spain
Year opened:
1981
Operating rooms:
5
Employees:
156
External consultations annually:
44.014
Surgeries annually:
4,604
Clínica Assistens Coruña
Clínica Assistens, located in A Coruña’s Matogrande area, offers a wide range of medical specialties, including general medicine, surgery, and psychotherapy. With a focus on personalized care and state-of-the-art services, it is dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare to its patients.
Location:
Year opened:
2023
Operating rooms:
2
Employees:
50
External consultations annually:
88.477
Surgeries annually:
_
Clínica Ribera Ciudad Quesada
Clínica Ribera Ciudad Quesada is a private healthcare facility offering over 20 medical and surgical specialties, including cardiology, gynecology, and physiotherapy. Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology, the clinic provides immediate, high-quality care without waiting times.
Location:
Year opened:
2023
Operating rooms:
1
Employees:
22
External consultations annually:
9.550
Surgeries annually:
100
Hospital Ribera Caravaca
Hospital Ribera Caravaca provides 24/7 emergency care, general medicine, and advanced diagnostic services with state-of-the-art technology. Established in 1972 and integrated into the Ribera Health Group in 2022, it is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care and actively supports community health initiatives.
Location:
Caravaca de la Cruz, Murcia
Year opened:
1972
Operating rooms:
1
Employees:
97
External consultations annually:
2,791
Surgeries annually:
2,481
Hospital Ribera de Molina
Hospital Ribera de Molina is a private healthcare facility offering a comprehensive range of medical and surgical services. It has become a regional benchmark for quality healthcare. Equipped with modern technology and a dedicated team of professionals, it has been recognized for its commitment to excellence.
Location:
Year opened:
2000
Operating rooms:
6
Employees:
195
External consultations annually:
13,870
Surgeries annually:
13,839
Hospital Ribera Juan Cardona
Hospital Ribera Juan Cardona, located in Ferrol, is a well-established private hospital providing comprehensive medical and surgical services. Equipped with modern technology and a skilled team of professionals, it offers high-quality, patient-centered care.
Location:
Ferrol, Galicia, Spain
Year opened:
1974
Operating rooms:
5
Employees:
289
External consultations annually:
57,056
Surgeries annually:
5,138
Hospital Ribera Povisa
Hospital Ribera Povisa is one of the largest private hospitals in Europe, renowned for its comprehensive medical services and cutting-edge technology. Located in Vigo, it serves as a benchmark for specialized care and advanced treatments across multiple disciplines.
Location:
Vigo, Galicia, Spain
Year opened:
1973
Operating rooms:
14
Employees:
1387
External consultations annually:
421,751
Surgeries annually:
17,141
Hospital Ribera Virgen de la Caridad
Hospital Ribera Virgen de la Caridad is a renowned healthcare center offering high-quality, patient-focused medical care across various specialties. Equipped with advanced technology and led by a team of skilled professionals, it ensures exceptional care and outcomes.
Location:
Cartagena, Murcia, Spain
Year opened:
2018
Operating rooms:
5
Employees:
530
External consultations annually:
186,960
Surgeries annually:
6,161
Hospital Ribera Covadonga
Hospital Ribera Covadonga is a trusted healthcare facility known for its patient-centered approach and comprehensive medical services. With a highly skilled team and modern infrastructure, it delivers personalized care across a range of specialties.
Location:
Gijón, Asturias, Spain
Year opened:
1915
Operating rooms:
3
Employees:
100
External consultations annually:
80,000
Surgeries annually:
3,000
Hospital Ribera IMSKE
Hospital Ribera IMSKE is a leading center for musculoskeletal health, specializing in advanced treatments for orthopedic, sports, and rheumatologic conditions. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a multidisciplinary team, it offers personalized care to ensure optimal recovery and patient satisfaction.
Location:
Valencia, Spain
Year opened:
2020
Operating rooms:
5
Employees:
100
External consultations annually:
28,860
Surgeries annually:
3,500
Dr. Pilar Serrano
Dr. Pilar Serrano is a General and Digestive Surgery Department Head at Ribera. A graduate of the University of Alicante, she holds a Doctorate in Medicine and Surgery, awarded Cum Laude and with an Extraordinary Doctorate Prize. Dr. Serrano completed her residency in General and Digestive Surgery at the General University Hospital of Elche, where she also served as a specialist before joining Hospital Universitario del Vinalopó in 2010 as Head of the Department. She leads the accredited Coloproctology Unit and has spearheaded the implementation of national quality indicators for colorectal cancer care across multiple Ribera hospitals. Dr. Serrano is also the President of the Digestive Tumor Committee and has been recognized for her innovative contributions, including awards like the “Isabel Ferrer” Prize and the Top 20 Award for Best General and Digestive Surgery Service.
Languages spoken: Spanish and English
Specialties:
Dr. José Gil Martínez
Dr. José Gil Martínez is a highly qualified General and Digestive Surgeon, dedicated to delivering advanced medical care with a focus on patient well-being. With a robust academic and professional background, he is a trusted expert in his field. He holds a Medical Degree in Medicine and Surgery, a specialization in General and Digestive Surgery, and a Ph.D. from the University of Murcia. He brings advanced expertise in Coloproctology and Peritoneal Carcinomatosis, ensuring exceptional care and outcomes for his patients.
Languages spoken: Spanish
Specialties:
Dr. Antonio Climent Aira
Dr. Antonio Climent Aira is an accomplished General Surgeon with over three decades of experience in surgical practice and leadership. He holds a degree in Medicine from the University of Santiago de Compostela and completed his specialization in General Surgery at the Complexo Hospitalario Xeral – Cíes in Vigo. Dr. Climent Aira has advanced expertise in Coloproctology and colorectal and pelvic floor surgery, supported by a Master’s degree from the University of Zaragoza. A founding member of the Galician Group of Coloproctology, he has contributed extensively to research, education, and the advancement of surgical practices.
Languages spoken: Spanish
Specialties:
Dr. José Albors Martín
Dr. José Albors Martín is a highly regarded cardiac surgeon and a Cardiac Surgery Department Head at Ribera. After earning his medical degree from the University of Valencia in 2003, he completed his specialization in Cardiovascular Surgery at the Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia in 2010. Joining the Vinalopó and Torrevieja University Hospitals in 2011 as a cardiac surgery specialist, he was appointed Head of Cardiac Surgery at Vinalopó in 2020. A principal investigator in the ROMA trial on coronary surgery since 2020, Dr. Albors also achieved accreditation from Harvard Medical School’s Surgical Leadership Program in 2022, reflecting his commitment to advancing cardiac care and leadership.
Languages spoken: Spanish and English
Specialties:
Dr. Luis González
Dr. Luis González is an accomplished cardiologist with extensive expertise in electrophysiology and acute cardiac care. He earned his medical degree from the University of Seville and completed his cardiology specialization at the Virgen Macarena University Hospital in Seville. His academic achievements include a Master’s in Biomedical Research from the University of Seville, a Master’s in Acute Cardiac Care from the Spanish Society of Cardiology and UCAM, and a Master’s in Diagnostic and Therapeutic Cardiac Electrophysiology from CEU San Pablo University. Additionally, he has specialized training in atrial fibrillation from the University of Santiago de Compostela and holds European accreditation in Interventional Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology from the European Society of Cardiology and EHRA.
Languages spoken: Spanish and English
Specialties:
Dr. Manuel Carnero
Dr Manuel Carnero is an Adult Cardiac Surgeon at Ribera. His expertise is in arrhythmia surgery, minimally invasive procedures and heart failure treatment. Manuel is a member of the scientific committee of the Spanish National Registry of Cardiovascular Surgery. Manuel has a Postdoctoral master’s degree in Research Methodology and Statistics and is a statistical reviewer for EJCTS and ICVTS as well as a member of the editorial board of Revista Española de Cardiología. Manuel has a postdoctoral master’s degree in Clinical Management and is the Quality Manager of the Cardiac Surgery Department at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos. Manuel also has a postdoctoral master’s degree in echocardiography. Manuel is also a member of EACTS and the Spanish Society of Cardiology, former General Secretary of the Spanish Society of Cardiovascular and Endovascular Surgery, and Investigator for the Spanish National Center for Cardiovascular Research (CNIC).
Manuel has authored 147 manuscripts as first author or collaborator.
ORCID ID: 0000-0001-5045-576.
Languages spoken: Spanish
Specialties:
Dr. Carlos De Diego Rus
Dr. Carlos De Diego Rus is a distinguished cardiologist specializing in electrophysiology and arrhythmias. He earned his medical degree from the Autonomous University of Madrid, where he also completed his cardiology specialization at the prestigious Fundación Jiménez-Díaz. Further honing his expertise, Dr. De Diego trained in electrophysiology and arrhythmia management at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and in Madrid. Since January 2018, he has served as a Head of Cardiology at Ribera, where he leads advancements in heart health with a focus on cutting-edge treatment and patient care.
Languages spoken: Spanish and English
Specialties:
Dr. Ignacio Valenciano BilbaoMuñoz Criado
Dr. Ignacio Valenciano Bilbao is a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon with a career spanning over two decades in both public and private healthcare sectors. After earning his medical degree from Universidad de Santiago de Compostelaand completing his specialization via MIR at Arquitecto Marcide Hospital in Ferrol, he pursued advanced training in spinal surgery at La Fe Hospital in Valencia and pediatric orthopedics at Niño Jesús Hospital in Madrid. Constantly updating his expertise, Dr. Valenciano specializes in primary and revision prosthetic surgery and advanced arthroscopic techniques. Currently, he serves as a Traumatology Department Head at Ribera.
Languages spoken: Spanish and English
Specialties:
Dr. Pedro Antonio Martínez Victorio
Dr. Pedro Antonio Martínez Victorio is an esteemed orthopedic surgeon with extensive international experience. He completed his specialization in Orthopedic Surgery and Traumatology at Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca in Murcia and has pursued advanced training at renowned institutions, including the Royal Liverpool University Hospital and Hospital for Special Surgery in New York. As an invited surgeon, he has performed complex procedures in leading hospitals across Spain and Europe. His expertise spans minimally invasive techniques, sports injuries, and cutting-edge prosthetic innovations, earning him recognition as a leader in orthopedic surgery worldwide.
Languages spoken: Spanish and English
Specialties:
Dr. Paulino Sánchez Arteaga
Dr. Paulino Sánchez Arteaga is a renowned orthopedic surgeon specializing in advanced reconstructive and robotic knee prosthetic surgery. With international training at prestigious institutions such as the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York where he focused on hip and knee arthroplasty under Dr. Friedrich Boettner, he has become a leader in complex cases requiring cutting-edge technology. Dr. Sánchez is also an expert in sports traumatology, accelerated recovery protocols for hip and knee arthroplasties, and infection prevention. He has authored numerous high-impact publications in national and international journals, contributing significantly to advancements in orthopedic surgery and traumatology.
Languages spoken: Spanish and English
Specialties:
Dr. Ignacio Muñoz Criado
Dr. Ignacio Muñoz Criado is an internationally renowned orthopedic surgeon and the Medical Director of one of Ribera’s hospitals. With a distinguished career spanning decades, he has worked with elite athletes, served as the doctor for the Spanish Tennis Federation at Grand Slam tournaments, and contributed to the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. He played a key role in establishing Spain’s first hospital dedicated to the musculoskeletal system. A passionate educator and speaker, Dr. Muñoz has given numerous talks and lectures in Spain, England and the United States and he has collaborated with world-renowned surgeons. His surgical expertise and pursuit of perfection have earned him a reputation as one of the top orthopedic surgeons worldwide.
Languages spoken: Spanish and English
Specialties:
